Senior Buyer

What will you be doing?

• Strategic and tactical procurement 

You will develop and implement procurement policies and processes that are efficient, transparent, sustainable, and compliant, and that deliver maximum value. You serve as a sparring partner and advisor to management, project leaders, and colleagues from the academies and the Service Bureau on (complex) procurement issues, tendering procedures, and contract and supplier management. You develop procurement strategies for complex sourcing issues.

• Conducting and overseeing (European) tenders

You will manage procurement processes from start to finish: from developing the procurement strategy and documentation through to evaluation and contract formation. You will ensure a meticulous, lawful, and transparent process and maintain close contact with suppliers and internal stakeholders.   

• Analysis and Research

You will conduct spend analyses, risk assessments, and market analyses, and translate these insights into concrete improvements. You will identify opportunities, enhance the quality of procurement, and support the organization in making sound and effective decisions.

• Advising and supporting 

You will assist colleagues with operational procurement issues, supplier selection, and the implementation of procurement procedures. You will ensure that documentation, record-keeping, and reporting are clear and comply with the requirements for lawful procurement. You will actively contribute ideas for process improvements and help establish a consistent approach across the entire organization.

• Professionalizing Procurement and Contract Management

You will play a key role in the further development and professionalization of procurement and contract management at AHK. You will be responsible for improving, ensuring, and implementing the entire procurement process—from defining requirements to post-contract follow-up—with a particular focus on compliance, efficiency, and risk management.

Who are you?

You work meticulously and systematically, and are adept at balancing the big picture with the details. You are organizationally savvy and conscientious, and know how to strike a balance between legal obligations and the organization’s needs. You have strong analytical skills, think in terms of solutions, and are a pleasant sounding board for colleagues at all levels. You are results-oriented, driven, and persistent. Collaboration is central to your approach: you seek to build connections and engage colleagues in new ways of working.

What are you bringing?

• At least 5 years of relevant experience in procurement in the (semi-)public sector.
• Proven experience in independently conducting (European) procurement procedures and a thorough knowledge of the Public Procurement Act.
• HBO-level academic and intellectual ability.
• Experience with spend analysis and process optimization.
• Proficiency in Dutch and English (spoken and written).
• NEVI 1 and 2 (Public) or comparable relevant certifications.

This is us

The Amsterdam University of the Arts (AHK) comprises the Breitner Academy, the Academy of Architecture, the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, the Netherlands Film Academy, the Reinwardt Academy, and the Academy of Theatre and Dance. We are a dedicated, creative, and high-quality educational institution located in the heart of Amsterdam.

About the Central Administration & Procurement Department
The department is part of the Service Bureau and is responsible for financial administration, central student administration, and procurement. The procurement team consists of a senior procurement officer and a procurement and contract management officer; you will work closely together to further professionalize procurement and contract management within the AHK.

Here's what we offer

We offer you an inspiring work environment in the heart of Amsterdam. Initially, you will be offered a one-year contract with the possibility of a permanent position. The gross monthly salary is up to €6,359.47 (CLA-HBO scale 11) based on full-time employment. 

The AHK offers attractive employment conditions in accordance with the collective labor agreement for higher professional education (CAO-HBO), including an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, an ABP pension plan, a generous vacation policy, a generous travel allowance, and opportunities for further education and professional development. A Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) is required for this position.

Interested?

Is this job a good fit for you? If so, we look forward to receiving your resume and cover letter. Please send your resume to: vacature-sb@ahk.nl. The submission deadline is December 31, 2025. The first interviews will take place during the week of January 12, 2026, the 2^e The round of interviews will take place during the week of January 19, 2026. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact: Marco van der Meer, Head of Central Administration and Procurement, 020-5277723. 

The AHK is deeply rooted in society and is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. We welcome employees from diverse backgrounds and strive to create an inclusive work environment where everyone feels safe and respected. 

We prefer to assemble our team ourselves and therefore will not be considering any recruitment proposals in response to this job posting.